Kavanaugh, Kathleen Louise (nee Parr)

Passed away on June 14, 2013 in London Ontario at 97 years of age. Survived by loving daughter Nancie Carol (Gary) Hackney, dearest grandson David Gary (Kathryn) and great-grandson Eric David. Dear cousin of Mary (Mark) Boyd. Special “mom” to Vicki (Bob) Sillick. Predeceased by beloved husband Earl Joseph, and cherished son James Earl and grandson Patrick James, as well as dear sisters Elsie (Lawrence) Dupras and Margaret (Glen) Howard.

Kay was a caseworker for the City of Windsor Social Services Department, and pioneered in the fight for the right to do and be paid equally for a “male-only” position. She was a proud member of the Executive of C.U.P.E. Local 543 until her retirement in 1981, and was a founding member and President of the first C.U.P.E. Retirees Chapter. She was the first female President of the C.U.P.E. Area Council. She was on the Executive Board of the Windsor District Labour Council, the Board of Directors of the Unemployed Help Centre and the Industrial Accident Prevention Association. She was a tireless and generous worker for social justice, serving on the unite Way Program and Budget Review Committee, the founding committee and the Board of Directors of Hiatus House, and the founding committee and the Board of Directors of the Sandwich Community Health Centre, as well as on the Board of Directors of Crime Stoppers, and the Board of Directors of Cleary Auditorium during its expansion. She was also President and Campaign Manager of the Windsor West NDP Riding Association. Kay was recognized for her years of community service with the Ontario Volunteer Service Pin in 1984, and the Canada 125 Medal in 1992. She was the first female recipient of the Clarence Williams Award for Social Activism in 2002 and the first female recipient of the Charles E. Brooks Labour Community Services Award in 1985. Visiting Tuesday 3-5 & 7-9 pm at Families First, 3260 Dougall Ave. South Windsor, 519-969-5841. On Wednesday, family & friends are invited to meet at St. John’s Anglican Church, 3305 Sandwich St., after 10:30 am followed by funeral service at 11 am. Cremation to follow. Share memories, photos or make a donation at www.FamiliesFirst.ca